What Are the Medical Conditions Associated with Excessive Production of Saliva?

When too much saliva is produced, it’s often linked to conditions that affect either the glands responsible for making saliva or the muscles and nerves that help manage swallowing. Conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, motor neuron diseases, and cerebral palsy can disrupt the normal swallow reflex, causing saliva to build up. Some oropharyngeal or esophageal diseases, including infections or structural problems, may also result in sialorrhea. In addition, problems affecting the salivary glands themselves—like infections, inflammation, or even certain tumors—can change how much saliva is produced. Medications used to treat various conditions sometimes have side effects that lead to increased saliva. Together, these factors show that excessive saliva might be a sign of an underlying issue affecting the nervous system, muscle control, or the salivary glands. If drooling is persistent or impacting daily life, it is a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your specific situation and help recommend appropriate treatments or management strategies.